Police name man killed at memorial

A homeless man who was bashed to death as he slept on a footpath in front of a memorial to Australian soldiers in the heart of the city has been named as Anthony John Wood.

Detectives from The Rocks police said Mr Wood, 50, who hailed from country NSW, was known to police for the past three years as a harmless vagrant.

Police appealed to anyone who was in the vicinity of Regimental Square pedestrian plaza, on George Street opposite Martin Place, between 11pm on Monday and 12.40am on Tuesday, who may have seen anyone acting suspiciously, to contact The Rocks police.

Mr Wood was hit with what appeared to be a hammer as he slept on the pavement in front of the Royal Australian Regiment memorial.

"A witness has told police a man carrying a hammer or similar object was seen in George Street shortly before Mr Wood's body was found," said The Rocks police commander, Superintendent Phil Rogerson.

"He was seen crossing George Street towards Martin Place at about 11pm."

The man was described as being of white/European appearance, aged about 25, medium build, about 177 centimetres tall, and clean shaven.

He was wearing a grey beanie, headphones, brown or grey ski jacket and light coloured long pants.

Anyone with information is asked to ring The Rocks police on 8220 6399 or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.